On Tuesday, April 13 at 10:06 p.m., Newark Police Department Officers responded to the area of Birch Street just south of Birch Grove Park regarding a 16-year-old female who was sexually battered. The victim was walking on Birch Street when the suspect approached her from behind. The suspect covered her mouth with his hand while fondling her vaginal area over her clothing with his other hand. The victim broke free of her attacker and ran to a nearby residence. The suspect was last seen heading towards Birch Grove Park. The victim was not injured in the incident.

Newark Police Department Officers quickly set up a perimeter and utilized a helicopter and police dogs to search the area but were unable to locate the suspect. Investigators are comparing the facts of this incident with the attempted kidnapping that happened the same day, to determine if there is a connection; however, at this time it is not believed to be the same suspect.

Any person with information concerning this incident should contact Detective Sergeant Dave Parks at (510) 578-4247. Information can also be left anonymously on the "silent witness" hotline at (510) 578-4000, extension 500.